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The oil flask is a very common Roman vessel type, deriving from the "aryballos", a globular container in pottery or glass popular in Mediterranean lands since before the 6th century BC.

Used for carrying oils to the baths, they frequently had bronze handles or chains attached, remains of which are sometimes found still in place. Stoppers of bronze or worked bone have also been found (Caerleon).

This style of oil flask is based on various 2nd-3rd centuries AD examples from Caerleon, York and Cologne.

Our reproductions are supplied with leather cords for hanging.